Three people who died in a head-on crash on the A20 have been named.

Police today released the names of the trio who died in the collision which involved a car and a pick-up at Wrotham Hill on Sunday, December 20.

James Mealings, 65, from Fairby Road, Lee, London, and his companion Joan Hutchins, 78, of Eversley Avenue, Barnehurst, were travelling in a black Mercedes car. They both died in the incident.

Darren Francomb (right), 48, from Timberbank, Vigo, near Gravesend also died. He was travelling with his wife Hilary in a Toyota Hi-Lux pick-up truck. The pair were returning home from a lunch to celebrate their 23rd wedding anniversary. Mr Francomb leaves three sons, Darren Francomb Ben, Lewis and Elliott.

A statement from his family read: “Darren was a director of a highly successful family-run joinery company. He was a hard working, popular character who proudly cherished his family and lived life to the full. He will be sadly missed.”

Inquests into the deaths have been opened and adjourned.

The stretch of road where the accident happened is where the A20 climbs up a hill towards West Kingsdown, after the road crosses the M20 motorway.

One resident of Wrotham Hill, who asked not to be named, said: "It happened on the stretch of road parallel with Old Coach Road, which overlooks the A20.

"It is a busy part of the A20 and well used by locals and traffic from out of the area. It can get really busy if there is a hold up or problem on the M20, or M26, which are nearby."

Anyone with information is urged to contact Kent Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit on 01622 798538.